Train services across Great Britain are set to face significant disruptions in early May as the Aslef union announces a fresh series of rolling 24-hour strikes targeting multiple national rail operators.
Scheduled from May 7th to May 9th, the strikes will impact all operators contracted to the Department for Transport (DfT), affecting commuters and travellers across the country. The industrial action is part of a prolonged pay dispute, with Aslef highlighting the lack of pay increases for train drivers over the past five years as a central issue.
Despite earlier negotiations and an offer from the train companies, which included a two-year deal worth 4% annually but with associated changes to working conditions, Aslef members rejected the proposal. The union’s general secretary, Mick Whelan, emphasized that the offer fell short compared to increases offered to other sectors within the industry.
Whelan criticized the government’s stance, noting that the offer had been rejected following repeated strike votes. He highlighted the frustration among members, particularly given the protracted nature of the dispute.
The strikes will affect various operators under the DfT, with services to Wales and Scotland also expected to experience disruptions on relevant days. The strike schedule encompasses operators such as c2c, Greater Anglia, Great Northern, Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern/Gatwick Express, South Western Railway, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway, West Midlands Trains, LNER, Northern, and TransPennine Express.
This latest wave of strike action marks the fourth week of rolling strikes staged by Aslef since December, reflecting a shift in tactics amidst the ongoing dispute.
Responding to the announcement, the Rail Delivery Group, representing train operators, criticized the strikes as unnecessary and detrimental to customers and businesses. The disruption comes at a challenging time for the railway sector, with taxpayers already contributing significant funds to sustain services amidst financial pressures.